Speaking to Phillip Schofield and Amanda Holden he said: "I’m Charlie, I’m 29 years old and I’m a gay man and I’m very comfortable with that."

(Image: Bang & Strike, Rex)

Before making his announcement, he explained: "I feel that I am ready now and even though I am nervous sitting here and talking about it, I know that the time is now because anyone who might know me knows that I come off The Only Way Is Essex and on that show they followed my storyline which was very much about that subject.

"I never really knew where I belonged or where I fitted in and it was something that I had to address and it’s taken me a good few years to get here now."

He continued: "Our stories will help people, there is a way out. You are not alone. I want to be a positive person, telling people 'you can do this'.

(Image: Bang & Strike, Rex)

"I had a girlfriend, she was the first person I spoke to and told. It was a proper relationship but I was very aware when I was seeing her thing weren't quite right. If something doesn't click, it doesnt click."

Brave Charlie concluded: "I feel so positive about this."

As soon as the interview finished Twitter users took to the site in their droves to congratulate him.